What Are The Different Types of Diagnostic Imaging?

Diagnostic imaging plays a very important role in modern medicine. By using different imaging techniques, doctors can diagnose and treat many different conditions, injuries, and diseases more accurately and efficiently.

By creating images of parts of the body, diagnostic imaging can help:

• Diagnose likely causes of symptoms accurately
• Screen for health conditions and diseases
• Be used as a guide during surgical procedures and treatments
• Help in monitoring health conditions, diseases, and injuries following treatment
• Assess the healing of injuries and progression of chronic diseases

There are many different types of diagnostic imaging, including MRI, ultrasound, and x-rays. Each type of imaging technique uses different technology.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

MRI is a non-invasive, painless procedure that uses a large magnetic field along with radio waves and a sophisticated computer system to create detailed, intricate images of the different organs and structures within the body. MRI scans are a very beneficial method used by doctors to diagnose many different diseases and abnormalities ranging from tumors to joint defects.

MRI can be used for almost any part of the body, and it can cover large parts of the body in a relatively short time. A scan typically takes around 30-60 minutes depending on the size of the area to be scanned and the number of images that need to be taken.

In orthopedics, MRI is used to produce high-quality images of soft tissues such as tendons, ligaments, and muscles. It produces exceptionally clear images of the hand, wrist, elbow, shoulder, spine, hip, knee, foot, and ankle.

Radiography (X-ray)

X-ray is the oldest and most frequently used form of medical imaging. It is non-invasive, painless, and can help diagnose a variety of diseases and injuries, including broken bones, infections, and some forms of cancer. X-rays are diagnostic images that are created by passing small, highly controlled amounts of radiation through the human body to capture the resulting shadows and reflections on a photographic plate.

The most common use of x-rays is to assist in identifying and treating bone fractures. Diagnostic x-ray images can reveal the minutest details of an injury, such as very fine, hairline fractures or a chip in a bone.

Doctors may take x-ray images after orthopedic treatment to ensure that a fracture is properly aligned and has stabilized. X-rays are an essential tool for orthopedic surgery as well and are often used in conjunction with joint replacement and fracture reduction procedures.

Ultrasound

Ultrasound is a safe, non-invasive, and relatively painless form of diagnostic imaging. It involves the use of a handheld device that sends high-frequency sound waves into the body to provide a live “moving” image onto a screen of internal tissues, bones, and organs.

Orthopedic specialists use ultrasound to guide certain therapies, primarily, pain-management injections. Ultrasounds allow the medication to be delivered accurately to where it is needed so that patients get effective relief from pain and other symptoms.

Advanced Bone & Joint in Missouri – For All Your Orthopedic Needs

The orthopedic professionals at Advanced Bone & Joint in St. Charles County, Missouri, want to make it as easy and convenient for you to have all your orthopedic needs met with as little stress as possible.

We offer x-rays, MRIs, ultrasounds, and much more as on-site services. Our goal is to get you back to full health and your regular routine as quickly as possible.

Call (636) 229-4222 today for more information or request your appointment now. We look forward to serving you!